The Statewide Guardian ad Litem Program was recognized by the Minority Chamber of Commerce as the “2013 Public-Private Partnership Organization of the Year.”

The award states that the Guardian ad Litem Office is recognized for their outstanding leadership, compassion and commitment to the families in the state of Florida.

“The recipients of the Minority Gala Awards 2013 showcase the good that government and private sector does, which positively affects our lives every day,” said Doug Mayorga, Minority Chamber of Commerce president. “By honoring these outstanding public servants and corporate, private sector executives, we give our local and international communities the long overdue thanks and recognition they deserve.”

Through public private partnerships, the GAL program has been able to expand its volunteer base and serve more children who are in foster care. This representation leads to better outcomes for children, including fasteradoptions, better educational outcomes, quicker permanency, and enhanced safety and well-being.

“This award is meaningful in that it recognizes our partnership with the Miami-Dade Guardian ad Litem Program while honoring the Voices for Children’s Board of Directors,” said Nelson F. Hincapie, president of Voices For Children. “It is their leadership in raising funds which helps to ensure the abused and neglected children in Miami-Dade County have a court-appointed guardian ad litem as well as providing financial assistance and other resources for their accompanying health, educational, and social needs.”